As before in the R56 model, the 2015 F56 MINI Cooper retains its sporting character, yet can be comfortable enough as a daily driver. MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S models are available with a choice of two transmissions: a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. In the past we'd recommend the manual transmission hands-down over the automatic, as rowing through the gears can give the driver a greater sense of engagement. Now, BMW's automatics are getting so good, they're faster and more fuel-efficient than their stick-shift counterparts. For this reason, we'd opt for the automatic except for someone who loves a traditional manual. More power and torque makes the MINI Cooper S a truly fun car. Acceleration is peppier thanks to the 2.0-liter inline-4, and the automatic transmission provides enough oomph to merge and pass with ease. What's more, on cars equipped with navigation, the automatic transmission uses GPS to determine the car's location and maps out possible drive routes, adjusting shift points to maximize performance. Ride and handling in the 2015 MINI Cooper is more refined than in the past. Adjustable driving modes include Mid, Sport and Green, which adjust throttle mapping, steering response and engine acoustics from conservative to aggressive (for added fun, Sport mode is displayed on the screen as a rocket ship icon next to a go-kart). MINI's signature quick steering is still present, but the new setup doesn't feel as darty. The chassis is still stiff and responsive, with practically no body roll around corners. It's quick and agile, which came in handy many times during our test drive. Variable ratio steering adjusts according to speed and driving style, requiring less effort in parking lots and tightening up around corners at faster speeds. The MINI's tight turning circle came in handy many times when pulling U-turns on narrow roads after missing poorly marked turns.

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